9mm Pistol 
9mm Full Metal Copper Jacket with Lead Core 
44 Magnum Pistol Government Buildings
Federal and municipal buildings require protective glazing that supports security mandates while upholding civic transparency and design intent.
Forced Entry/Ballistic Resistance
Thompson Innovative Glass manufactures several Bullet-Resistant (also called Bullet Proof or Ballistic) Glass options under our Defender® line.
Forced Entry/Ballistic Resistance
Forced Entry & Bullet Resistant (“FEBR”): This type of security glass is designed to provide both forced entry and bullet-bullet resistant protection. Thompson FEBR glass solutions are available in IGU, Glass Glad and Glass Glad-All Glass constructions. FEBR glass is frequently used in applications where a very high level of security is needed such as courtrooms, government buildings, financial institutions and correctional facilities.
Make-Up Features
Glass
The glass layers provide structural integrity and rigidity of the unit. Glass causes the bullet to flatten upon impact and consequently reduces its velocity and disperses the kinetic energy over a broader area. The glass properties (thickness, annealed, heat-treated etc.) and number of layers varies by product. Available glass options vary by offering and include tints, reflective, bird-friendly, low-e, and low iron.
Polycarbonate
Thompson utilizes an optical grade Polycarbonate, a thermoplastic material known for its clarity, durability and strength. As the two outer layers of this makeup, they are responsible for absorbing and dispersing the energy of the bullet or projectile upon impact. Compared to a regular glass product, Polycarbonate’s strength makes it less likely to shatter upon impact which is an essential factor in the performance of the glass and the application. The exposed interior polycarbonate layer has an abrasion resistant coating on its surface for the purpose of providing excellent abrasion and chemical resistance. Take special care and follow specific instructions when cleaning polycarbonate as permanent damage may result if cleaned incorrectly.
Adhesive Interlayers
Thompson uses both high optical grade polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and other proprietary interlayers to bond multiple layers of glass. The interlayers act as the “glue” that hold the various glass layers together.
Product Overview
Defender forced entry glass features multiple make-ups and performance levels and can be combined with energy efficiency products as well as bird-friendly materials
Get Expert Guidance on Defender Glass
Check with the Thompson Innovative Glass team for more details and options from our Defender line to find the right one for you and your application.
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Options
Clear
Thompson Innovative Glass works with only best in clear float glass featuring high quality and aesthetic appeal.
Tints
Available tints include a variety of grays, bronzes, blues, and greens. Contact Thompson Innovative Glass for more specific details and samples.
Reflective
Thompson Innovative Glass carries reflective glass with varying performance & reflectance. Contact us for more specific details and samples.
One-Way Mirror
Where clear vision is required, and specific lighting conditions can be achieved. It offers an effective means of providing undetected surveillance and one-way vision to achieve privacy.
Thickness
Thompson Innovative Glass carries glass thicknesses from 1/8” to 3/4” giving you the best range to meet your products specifications.
Applications- Security and Protection
Bullet resistant and forced entry glass are critical components in protecting people and property across a wide range of high-risk environments. These specialized glazing solutions are trusted wherever enhanced security and peace of mind are essential, from public institutions to private facilities. Common applications include:
Schools
Security glazing enhances school safety by resisting forced entry and delaying intruders, providing critical response time without compromising light, visibility, or design.
Military Buildings
Military facilities utilize protective glazing to defend against ballistic threats, forced entry, and blast events while maintaining structural integrity.
Financial Institutions
Banks and financial offices rely on secure glazing for transaction windows, teller areas, and entry points to protect employees and assets.
Correctional Facilities
Glazing in correctional environments must meet rigorous standards for containment, safety, and visibility while withstanding impact and tampering.
Hospitals
Healthcare environments use safety and security glazing in patient rooms, lobbies, and sensitive areas to enhance protection and hygiene without sacrificing light or openness.
Maximum Size
Maximum size for All Glass
72" x 140"
Frequently Asked Questions About FEBR Glass
What is FEBR glass?
FEBR stands for Forced Entry and Bullet Resistant glass. It refers to glazing systems designed to resist both ballistic (gunfire) attacks and physical attacks such as prying, hammering, or battering with blunt or sharp objects. These systems are commonly used in government facilities, schools, financial institutions, utilities, and other sensitive infrastructure.
What testing standards apply to FEBR glass?
FEBR glass is often evaluated using a combination of standards, including:
UL 752 – For ballistic resistance (e.g., handgun or rifle levels)
ASTM F1233 – For forced entry resistance against various hand tools and impact methods
NIJ 0108.01 – Used in correctional or law enforcement contexts for bullet resistance
Many secure facilities will specify both UL and ASTM F1233 ratings for full FEBR performance.
What does ASTM F1233 cover?
ASTM F1233 is the Standard Test Method for Security Glazing Materials and Systems, specifically addressing resistance to forced entry using various attack tools like:
- Screwdrivers
- Pry bars
- Axes
- Hammers
- Picks
The standard includes tool-specific attack cycles and classifies glazing into categories based on how long the system withstands attack and what tools are used.
Can any bullet-resistant glass be considered FEBR?
No. Most standard bullet-resistant glass is designed only to stop bullets, not to resist repetitive physical impacts from tools or blunt objects. To qualify as FEBR, the glass (and ideally the entire system) must be tested and certified for both ballistic and forced entry performance.
Where is FEBR glass typically used?
School security entry vestibules
Federal and state government buildings
Utility substations
Police stations and courthouses
High-end commercial or retail environments
Correctional facilities
What are the limitations of FEBR glass?
Heavier and thicker than standard glass
Higher cost due to advanced materials and certification
Must be installed properly to achieve rated performance
Often limited in size or design flexibility (depending on ballistic level)
Does FEBR glass offer fire protection?
No. FEBR glass is not fire-rated by default. If fire and ballistic/forced-entry resistance are both required, specialized hybrid glazing systems must be specified and tested accordingly.
Your Guide to Bullet Resistant Glass Options
Discover all our Forced Entry Bullet Resistant options in our brochure.
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